Wool batting and washing
 

I was curious about wool batting and want to try it in a quilt but was just wondering about washing. I have not purchased a wool batting yet and wasn't sure - kind of wanted to know what I was in for before I purchased. thanks much.

It depends on the brand. I used Hobbs Heirloom wool and it washed beautifully. Read the directions on the package and make your decision based on that.

Hobbs Heirloom wool and Dream wool are the only two brands I would consider for a wool quilt. They should wash up fine. Off-brands can have horrendous problems including bearding and shrinking. On the Hobbs site, the shrinkage factor for their Heirloom wool is very similar to most cotton batt shrinkage -- about 3%, which is fairly minimal and at most gives the gentle krinkled effect of vintage quilts.

I read on another thread here that wool batts need to be dry-cleaned so make sure you check the package label.

Not all wool battings are created equal and there are many sources. Read the guidleines for quilting requirements as well as care intructions before making a decision. I like Hobbs wool batting. I did purchase a wool batting from a small company ... it was quite a disaster... the batting felted horribly .. this after I was assured it could be washed ( gently cycle).

The manufacturer's website says Hobbs Heirloom wool is washable. Here is a link:
http://www.hobbsbondedfibers.com/products-retail.html

I believe Dream wool batting also specifies that it is washable. I would not trust other wool batts.

ive used Dream Wool in half a dozen quilts- they wash up wonderfully! there is not as much shrinkage as some cotton batts- they come out of the dryer- fluffy/lofty/soft---I love working with wool batts!
read the packaging- everything you need to know is on the package.